WO2009018646A1

WO2009018646A1 - Modular units for providing a support surface adjacent a medical imaging device

Info

Publication number: WO2009018646A1
Application number: PCT/CA2007/001391
Authority: WO
Inventors: Deepak Kaura
Original assignee: Deepak Kaura
Priority date: 2007-08-08
Filing date: 2007-08-08
Publication date: 2009-02-12

Abstract

Modular units for placement adjacent a medical imaging device are provided. Specifically, the invention provides modular units and a modular assembly for placement against a medical imaging device, for example an open MRI device, to create a support surface adjacent the imaging device. The support surface may be used to comfortably and optimally position a patient for the procedure; to support a caregiver next to the patient to reduce patient anxiety; or as an instrument or accessory table. Specifically, an articulated modular assembly is exemplified that may be easily reconfigured about the imaging device as necessary. Methods to reduce patient anxiety and improve imaging opportunity using the modular units are provided.

Description

MODULAR UNITS FOR PROVIDING A SUPPORT SURFACE ADJACENT A

MEDICAL IMAGING DEVICE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to modular units for providing a support surface during a medical examination or procedure. More particularly, the present invention relates primarily to modular units and modular assemblies for providing a support surface adjacent a medical device to more comfortably and effectively accommodate a patient undergoing a medical examination or procedure or to accommodate a caregiver adjacent the patient during the medical procedure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is generally considered a reliable diagnostic tool used to image body tissues, and is often the method of choice for non- invasive diagnostic testing. Applications of MRI include assessment of physical trauma such as broken bones and torn ligaments; the diagnosis of disease including imaging the central nervous system, particularly for detecting cancers in the brain and lesions in the spinal canal/column, or more recently for imaging blood vessels and detecting stroke-affected regions of the brain. [0003] Briefly, in conventional MRI, a patient is placed upon the scanning bed and the body part to be imaged is positioned within the narrow tunnel or bore of the MRI. During the scan, a pulse sequence is applied to the magnetic field within the bore, and the energy transmitted via the pulse sequence is absorbed and released by body tissues, and is translated into a series of images. [0004] Although MRI is a non-invasive procedure, a patient undergoing the diagnostic scan must keep the body part(s) of interest completely still within the narrow (approximately 22 inch diameter) MRI bore for at least 30 minutes in order to obtain an acceptable series of images. In addition, certain thumping or knocking sounds may emanate from within the tunnel during the scan, which may be disconcerting to the patient. These conditions are generally perceived as uncomfortable to the patient, particularly when the patient is undergoing an upper body scan and has been positioned head-first within the tunnel. [0005] In addition, elderly patients and patients of large stature may be difficult to position appropriately within the bore of a tunnel magnet, creating additional patient anxiety and discomfort. Most MRI equipment can support up to 350 pounds, however large patients do not enjoy the physically restricted environment of a closed MRI and often will not fit within the bore of a tunnel MRI. [0006] Furthermore, when imaging children, who are generally uncomfortable with a hospital or clinic setting itself, it is often difficult to maintain the child in an appropriate imaging position for the required length of time without sedation. Regardless of whether sedation is required, MRI is usually an anxiety-provoking experience for both child and parent.

[0007] It is well documented in the art that a certain proportion of scans in patients of various demographics are aborted due to patient discomfort or anxiety. For example, the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) has studied radiology reports filed between 1989 and 2003 that were labeled as "limited by body habitus" and concluded that the percentage of aborted or otherwise limited MRI scans has nearly doubled over the 15-year period. [0008] The development of Open MRI equipment, in which the imaging tunnel is flared, widened or completely absent in favour of an overhead imaging apparatus, has improved patient compliance during MRI and has provided the opportunity to image patients whose age, body stature, physical health, or level of anxiety would have previously prevented the use of diagnostic procedures involving MRI. Certain models of open MRI devices allow significant lateral space adjacent the patient, which reduces feelings of isolation or claustrophobia, and also allows a family member or caregiver to be in constant physical contact with the patient during the scan.

[0009] However, even with the advent of open MRI systems, the size of the

MRI scanning bed is limited and provides minimal versatility to position the patient in unusual positions which may be required to optimize imaging of a particular body part. For example, large patients may not fit on the MRI table and/or may not be properly or fully supported by the table when the body part to be scanned is positioned in the isocenter of the magnet. Similarly, certain patients cannot be positioned in the traditional foot to head or head to foot position due to space, size, or health constraints and need to be placed into the magnet obliquely, which is currently not possible.

[0010] In addition, when imaging children or other fearful patients who may require the presence of a family member or caregiver, MRI systems do not comfortably accommodate an additional person adjacent or atop the scanning bed. Moreover, as an MRI device and related equipment generally requires a large amount of floor space in the imaging room, it may not be practical to reposition chairs or stools about the room to accommodate a caregiver or to customize patient positioning, and the shape of the scanning bed may also not permit such accommodation in close proximity to the scanning bed. [0011] It is, therefore, desirable to provide systems and devices to further reduce patient anxiety during MRI, to provide comfort to patients undergoing MRI and their caregivers if present, and to facilitate customized patient positioning and compliance to increase diagnostic reliability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a modular assembly for placement adjacent a medical imaging device, the modular assembly comprised of at least two interlocking modular units adjustable in orientation about the imaging device to provide a supplementary support surface adjacent the imaging device.

[0013] The medical imaging device may be a standard MRI unit, an Open MRI unit, or another type of imaging device. The assembly may be contoured to fit against the base of the imaging device.

[0014] In an embodiment, the supplementary support surface forms an extension adjacent an existing support surface of the imaging device, such as a patient bed, scanning surface, or instrument tray. [0015] In a further embodiment, the second of said units may be interlockable over a portion of the first module to form an extended support surface over the portion of the first unit.

[0016] In an embodiment, the first unit is an L-shaped unit. The second unit may also be an L-shaped unit, with the L-shaped units placed in opposite orientation such that a portion of the second unit overlaps and interlocks with a portion of the first unit. The overlapping, interlocking portions may form an articulated joint between the units. A bearing collar may be placed between the overlapping portions to facilitate articulation at the joint. Grooves may be provided within the overlapping portions to receive the bearing collar.

[0017] In another embodiment, the first unit is an L-shaped unit and the second unit is a cover unit for interlocking with a surface of the L-shaped unit to enable a patient or caregiver to be comfortably positioned upon the cover unit. In specific embodiments, the cover unit covers an overlapping base portion of the L- shaped unit or a storage compartment within the L-shaped unit. The cover unit may further provide a bed surface for supporting a patient or caregiver adjacent the imaging device; may extend the scanning bed of the imaging device; or provide an instrument tray adjacent the medical imaging device. [0018] In an embodiment, the cover unit further comprises a contoured cushion for supporting a specific body part.

[0019] In another embodiment, the modular assembly may be used in a method to reduce patient anxiety during a medical imaging procedure, the method comprising the steps of: providing the modular assembly; and placement of the modular assembly against a medical imaging device to enable a caregiver to sit or lie adjacent the patient during the medical imaging procedure.

[0020] In another embodiment, the modular assembly may be used in a method to improve patient comfort and positioning during an MRI, the method comprising the steps of: providing the modular assembly; placing the modular assembly against the base of the MRI device; and positioning a patient upon the bed of the imaging device and upon the support surface of the modular assembly such that the patient body part to be imaged lies in the magnetic isocenter of the MRI system. [0021] In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a portable modular unit for placement against an open MRI device to provide a supplementary support surface adjacent the open MRI. The supplementary support surface may be, for example, a bed surface, a sitting surface, or a medical instrument table. [0022] In an embodiment, the unit is composed of lightweight, low-density material suitable for use within an MRI suite.

[0023] In another embodiment, the assembly further comprises a system for reversibly attaching the unit to the MRI base or to one or more additional support units about the open MRI. [0024] In a further embodiment, the modular unit further comprises a means for pivotably attaching the unit to one or more additional support units about the open MRI to form an articulated support assembly adjustable in configuration about the open MRI. [0025] In another embodiment, the modular unit has storage recesses formed therein for storing items.

[0026] In another embodiment, the modular unit comprises a cushioned surface for comfortably supporting a patient or caregiver adjacent the MRI. The cushioned surface may be contoured to support a specific body part in appropriate orientation adjacent the MRI. The cushioned surface may be provided as a cover for a storage recess within the modular unit.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the unit is used in a method to reduce patient anxiety during a medical imaging procedure, the procedure comprising the steps of: providing the modular unit; and placing the modular unit against a medical imaging device to enable a caregiver to sit or lie adjacent the patient during the medical imaging procedure.

[0028] In another embodiment, the modular unit is used in a method to improve patient comfort and positioning during an MRI procedure, the procedure comprising the steps of: providing the modular unit; placing the modular unit against the base of the MRI device; and positioning a patient upon the bed of the imaging device and upon the support surface of the modular assembly as necessary such that the patient body part to be imaged lies in the magnetic isocenter of the MRI system. [0029] Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an open MRI device and modular support assembly; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a modular assembly formed from modular units;

Fig. 3 a and 3b are perspective views of L-shaped modular support units;

Fig 3 c is an exploded perspective view of the modular assembly shown in Figure 2;

Fig. 4a and 4b are cross sectional perspective views of modular units shown in Figure 2; and

Fig 5a through 5d are plan views of suitable configurations of the modular units about an MRI device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Generally, the present invention provides a method and system for comfortably supporting a patient and/or caregiver during a medical imaging procedure. More specifically, the present invention provides modular units that may be interlocked to form a modular assembly for placement adjacent a medical imaging device such as an Open MRI device. The modular units may be placed, alone or assembled, against an imaging device to provide a supplementary support surface adjacent the imaging device. The supplementary support surface may be used to support a patient or caregiver adjacent the scanning bed, which improves patient comfort during imaging, thereby reducing patient anxiety and improving compliance and imaging opportunity.

Overview of the modular assembly [0032] The modular assembly herein described may be formed from two or more modular units of similar or varying shapes and sizes for arrangement into suitable configurations about an imaging device. For example, chairs, tables, and bed surfaces with or without cushions may be assembled to facilitate customized patient positioning for a given medical procedure. The modular units may be nested, stacked, or collapsed for storage, and assembled as needed to create a plurality of potential support configurations against virtually any surface of the device. Some or all of the modular units may be contoured to conform to the shape of the device, for example to conform to the base or scanning bed of a specific piece of imaging equipment. The assembly may further include covers, cushions, casters, or other accessories to enhance the comfort or portability of the units.

[0033] Using the modular units of the present invention, a radiologist or technician is able to extend the size of the scanning bed and thereby customize the positioning of patients within the magnetic field to improve imaging opportunity without sacrificing patient comfort. Patients of large stature, as well as fragile or elderly patients, may be comfortably positioned in standard or customized orientation within the magnetic field by positioning or assembling modular units to create appropriate support surfaces adjacent or within the magnetic field. [0034] In addition, the modular units may be assembled into appropriate configuration to comfortably support a caregiver adjacent the scanning bed of the imaging device. When scanning pediatric or other fearful patients, the close proximity of a caregiver may ease anxiety. For example, in pediatric imaging by Open MRI, a bed may be assembled that is contoured to the shape of the MRI base to permit a parent to lie next to their child during the scan, providing reassurance and avoiding the need for anesthesia in many cases. This also provides reassurance to the parent, allowing them to remain in close contact with their child during the experience. [0035] With reference to Figure 1, an Open MRI system 10 (AIRIS Elite® by

Hitachi®, Ltd.) is shown, with a modular assembly 20 adjacent the scanning bed 12 and patient table 13. In the Open MRI system shown, the patient table 13 may be height-adjustable and may be laterally displacable (10 cm laterally) to adjust the position of the patient beneath the overhead magnet 14. The overhead magnet 14 is supported by two corner posts 15 extending from the base 11 , which contains the lower magnet. The base 11 is compact and contoured, which increases mobility within the imaging suite, however the small size of the base 11 and bed 12 limits the ability of a radiologist or technician to customize the position of the patient beneath the magnet 14 in situations where the patient's condition or body type may limit standard positioning atop the scanning bed 12.

[0036] MRI manufacturers generally produce several MRI systems, each emphasizing different features or enhancements, and each imaging device is therefore uniquely configured. In some Open MRI systems, the general shape of the base containing the lower magnet may be larger and less contoured, potentially providing further patient support surfaces to facilitate some degree of customized patient positioning. However, a bulky base limits the ability of a caregiver to be present adjacent a patient lying in standard position beneath the overhead magnet. Accordingly, the presently described modular units and assemblies may be used with various MRI systems, or modular units may be custom-developed for each MRI system based on the shape and size of the base, scanning bed, patient bed, and magnet. Similarly, modular units may be developed for other imaging devices based on the principles of accessibility of the patient by the professional, patient comfort, and imaging opportunity, in accordance with the teachings herein.

Modular Assembly

[0037] When used herein, the term "modular assembly" means two or more modular units interlocked or otherwise used together to assemble a supplementary support surface adjacent a medical imaging device. [0038] With reference to Figure 2, a modular assembly 20 is shown for placement against an imaging device. The assembly 20 depicted is formed from two L-shaped modular units 21, 22, two covers 23, 24, and a collar 80, the assembly of which is shown in Figure 3 c. The two L-shaped units are in opposite orientation so as to overlap and interlock with one another. A first L-shaped unit 21 is shown in base orientation, and a second L-shaped unit 22 is shown in support orientation such that the overlapping base portion 26 of the first unit 21 may be used to support the overlapping support portion 27 of the second unit 22. A collar 80 or other articulating support or bearing may be placed between the overlapping portions 26, 27 to allow the units to articulate. This articulating joint is particularly useful in adjusting the configuration of the assembly, as no lifting of the modular units is required. For example, the assembly may be easily moved about an imaging suite and adjusted to conform to the shape of a scanning bed at many different locations simply by articulating the units for best fit against the imaging device.

[0039] Individual L-shaped units 21, 22, are shown in Figures 3a and 3b, respectively, with unit 21 in base orientation, and unit 22 in support configuration. A modular unit in base orientation (Fig 3 a) lies with storage compartment 81 and ring groove 25 exposed such that the overlapping base portion 26 of the unit 21 may be used as a seat. A seat cover unit (not shown) may be provided to cover the ring groove, and a support cover unit 24 may be provided to close storage compartment 81. [0040] If L-shaped modular unit 21 were upended into support configuration, the unit would rest with storage compartment 81 against the floor. Thus, upended unit 21 would be identical in orientation to the second L-shaped unit 22, as shown in Figure 3b, with storage compartments 82, 83 exposed, which may be closed with a support cover 23. [0041] As shown in Figure 3 c, the modular assembly shown in Figure 2 may be created by placing a bearing collar 80 into bearing groove 25 on the first L-shaped unit, which lies in base configuration. The second L-shaped unit 22, in support configuration, is placed over the first modular unit and bearing collar 80 fits into a bearing groove (not shown) in the overlapping support portion 27 of the second modular unit 22. Thus, the two modular units are joined and may articulate at the joint about the bearing collar 80. [0042] The modular assemblies are preferably contoured to the shape of a particular MRI system along the appropriate surfaces to fit snugly therewith and provide maximum comfort to the user without gaps between the base unit and the MRI base. It is further preferable that the units be contoured for fitting against more than one surface of the MRI. For example, in an embodiment, the L-shaped units are contoured, but are symmetrical and reversible to facilitate placement on either side of the magnet, depending upon an individual MRI unit's site requirements.

Modular Units [0043] The term "modular units" as used herein refers to a part or accessory for use in providing a supplementary support surface adjacent a medical imaging device. When two or more modular units are interlocked or otherwise used together to create an assembly for providing a supplementary support surface adjacent a medical imaging device, a modular unit may be added, removed, or reoriented within the assembly as needed. Any number of one or more types of modular units may be used to create various assembly configurations. For example, the modular units depicted in Figure 3c include two L-shaped units 21, 22, a collar 80, and cover units 23, 24. [0044] When used within an MRI imaging suite, the modular units should be composed of appropriate materials, having densities that do not interfere with the magnetic field created by the MRI. Suitable materials include plastic and fibreglass, however composite materials are generally unsuitable for use within an MRI suite. For example, the units may be composed of fibreglass. The materials should be capable of supporting significant mass, while minimizing overall weight of the modular units to facilitate portability and assembly. It is preferable that each unit be easily moveable by one individual.

[0045] The surfaces of the modular units that are intended to contact the floor may bear an anti-slip coating, lockable casters, or slidable footings to facilitate movement across the floor of the imaging suite. [0046] Some of the units may further include storage compartments to accommodate MRI coils, blankets, magazines, cushions, and/or other items as desired. The units may be constructed of multiple layers so the height may be easily customized, assembled, and disassembled. In the design shown in Figure 4a and 4b, the L-shaped modular units are generally hollow to provide storage compartments 81, 82, 83 within the units. The hollow design also facilitates portability, reduces the density of the modular units, and simplifies fabrication. [0047] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, first and second L-shaped modular units 21, 22, are identical, but are oriented oppositely. This reversible design is not required, but lends versatility by allowing a suitable number of assembly configurations with few modular units. If storage of multiple units is not a problem, modular units of varying sizes and shapes may be used to create suitable supplementary support surfaces, as provided herein.

[0048] The cover units for placement atop the L-shaped units may simply be formed of fibreglass and serve to cover the storage compartments formed in the L- shaped units. Further, the cover units may include a foam pad to enhance comfort when a patient or caregiver is supported in sitting or lying position upon one or more covers. The foam pads may be covered in vinyl or other fabric. Alternatively, the cover units may be formed as part of the L-shaped unit rather than as a separate modular unit.

[0049] The covers are intended to provide a support surface of a height comparable to that of the scanning bed such that the size of the MRI scanning bed is extended. Such configuration facilitates oblique placement of the patient within the magnetic field, or allows a parent to lie adjacent to a child during scanning. [0050] The covers may further include contoured pads for supporting a specific body part such as headrests, knee bolsters, etc. for use in appropriately positioning the patient with the body part of interest within the magnetic isocenter of the magnet. For example, in an Open MRI, a radiologist may request that a patient lie obliquely across the scanning bed, with the patient's head or legs unsupported by the scanning bed. One or more L-shaped units may be placed at appropriate locations about the MRI scanning bed to support the head and legs. To enhance patient comfort in this configuration, a knee bolster cover unit and headrest cover unit may be used, and an additional L-shaped unit may be placed in close proximity to the patient's head with a seat cover over the overlapping base portion to create a chair for a caregiver. The storage compartment 81 of the chair may be used to store reading material or personal items for the patient.

Interlocking [0051] The modular units are assembled into suitable configuration by interlocking placement against another modular unit. Various types of interlocking engagement are possible to stabilize the assembly. For example, the L-shaped units are interlocked as shown in Figure 3c by placement of a bearing collar 80 within bearing grooves in the overlapping portions of each L-shaped unit. Such interlocking limits slippage of the L-shaped units and allows articulation about the bearing collar 80.

[0052] Covers may be interlocked over storage compartments in the L-shaped units by interlocking a protrusion in the underside edge of the cover with a groove in the edge of the storage compartment. Alternatively, the cover may interlock with the L-shaped units by fitting the cover within a recess of the storage compartment. Similarly, seat covers may be interlocked over the overlapping portion 26 of the L- shaped unit by engaging the bearing groove 25.

[0053] It is also contemplated that the accessories may be physically attachable to one another and/or to the base of the imaging device by other methods. For example, the base units may bear hook and loop fasteners (eg. Velcro®) or other suitable attachment means to prevent the slippage of items between the units or between the unit and the base of the device. A hinge may be used to permanently connect the covers to the L-shaped units.

Assembly Configuration

[0054] The modular units may be used alone as chairs when placed in base orientation (as shown in Figure 3a). A cover may be placed over the overlapping base portion 26 to enhance seating comfort. Such "chairs" may be positioned about the imaging suite to form supplementary support surfaces about the imaging device. [0055] When a cover 23 is also placed over storage compartment 81 , the cover may additionally serve as a supplementary support surface when one unit in base configuration is used alone. The cover may then be used to extend the size of the image scanning bed, allowing a patient to be positioned partially atop the scanning bed and partially atop the cover 23 for optimal imaging as desired. This type of configuration is shown in Figure 5a. A caregiver may sit on either of overlapping base portions 26 or sit or lay on covers 23 to occupy and reassure the patient prior to and during the scan. Additional units or modules may be assembled as shown in Figures 5b through 5d to appropriately and comfortably position the patient or caregiver to improve compliance and image quality. Further, the units may be assembled at the rear of the scanning bed or elsewhere in the imaging suite if needed. [0056] Several modular units may be provided and assembled within the imaging suite to accommodate various numbers and sizes of patients, caregivers, or radiology attendants, who may sit, lie, or kneel on the modular units to gain access to the patient or the scanning area. Covers may be placed on the base units for additional support as needed. [0057] The present invention has been described mainly with specific reference to an Open MRI device. A person of skill in the art will understand that the invention may be applied to other devices or procedures where similar accessibility or comfort needs exist. For example, nuclear medicine applications, where the open gantry would facilitate close interaction between a patient and caregiver. Devices in accordance with the invention may also be designed for closed MRI systems and other imaging devices.

[0058] The above-described embodiments of the present invention are intended to be examples only. Alterations, modifications and variations may be effected to the particular embodiments by those of skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined solely by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A modular assembly for placement adjacent a medical imaging device, the modular assembly comprised of at least two interlocking modular units adjustable in orientation about the imaging device to provide a supplementary support surface adjacent the imaging device.

2. The modular assembly as in claim 1 wherein the medical imaging device is a MRI unit.

3. The modular assembly as in claim 1 wherein the medical imaging device is an Open MRI unit.

4. The modular assembly as in claim 1 wherein the supplementary support surface forms an extension adjacent an existing support surface of the imaging device.

5. The modular assembly as in claim 4 wherein the existing support surface is a patient bed of the imaging device.

6. The modular assembly as in claim 4 wherein the existing support surface is an instrument tray of the imaging device.

7. The modular assembly as in claim 1 wherein a first one of said units is contoured to fit against the base of the imaging device.

8. The modular assembly as in claim 7 wherein a second unit is interlockable with the first unit to form an extended support surface over a portion of the first unit.

9. The modular assembly as in claim 7 wherein the first unit is an L-shaped unit.

10. The modular assembly as in claim 8 wherein the first and second units are both L-shaped units, and wherein the L-shaped units are of opposite orientation such that a portion of the second unit overlaps and interlocks with a portion of the first unit.

11. The modular assembly as in claim 10 wherein the interlocking portions of the L-shaped units form an articulated joint between the units.

12. The modular assembly as in claim 11 further comprising a bearing collar between the interlocking portions to facilitate articulation at the joint.

13. The modular assembly as in claim 8 wherein the first unit is an L-shaped unit and the second unit is a cover unit for interlocking with a surface of the L-shaped unit to enable a patient or caregiver to be comfortably positioned upon the cover unit.

14. The modular assembly as in claim 13 wherein the cover unit covers an overlapping base portion of the L-shaped unit.

15. The modular assembly as in claim 13 wherein the cover unit covers a storage compartment within the L-shaped unit.

16. The modular assembly as in claim 13 wherein the cover unit provides a bed surface for supporting a patient or caregiver adjacent the imaging device.

17. The modular assembly as in claim 13 wherein the cover unit extends the scanning bed of the imaging device.

18. The modular assembly as in claim 13 wherein the cover unit provides an instrument tray adjacent the medical imaging device.

19. The assembly as in claim 13 wherein the cover unit further comprises a contoured cushion for supporting a specific body part.

20. The assembly as in claim 1 wherein the modular units are interlocked via a bearing to form an articulated assembly.

21. The assembly as in claim 15 wherein the bearing is placed between overlapping portions of adjacent modular units.

22. The assembly as in claim 15 wherein the bearing is a collar for placement within corresponding grooves formed in overlapping portions of adjacent modular units.

23. A method to reduce patient anxiety during a medical imaging procedure comprising the steps of: providing the modular assembly as in claim 1 ; and placing the modular assembly against a medical imaging device to enable a caregiver to sit or lie adjacent the patient during the medical imaging procedure.

24. A method to improve patient comfort and positioning during an MRI procedure comprising the steps of: providing the modular assembly as in claim 1; placing the modular assembly against the base of the MRI device; and positioning a patient upon the bed of the MRI device and upon the support surface of the modular assembly such that the patient body part to be imaged lies in the magnetic isocenter of the MRI system.

25. A portable modular unit for placement against an open MRI device to provide a supplementary support surface adjacent the open MRI.

26. The modular unit as in claim 25, wherein the supplementary support surface is a bed surface for supporting a patient or caregiver during a medical procedure.

27. The modular unit as in claim 25, wherein the supplementary support surface is a sitting surface.

28. The modular unit as in claim 25, wherein the supplementary support surface is a medical instrument table.

29. The modular unit as in claim 25, wherein the unit is composed of lightweight, low-density material suitable for use within an MRI suite.

30. The modular unit of claim 25, further comprising a system for reversibly attaching the unit to the MRI base.

31. The modular unit of claim 25, further comprising means for reversibly attaching the unit to one or more additional support units about the open MRI.

32. The modular unit as in claim 25, further comprising means for pivotably attaching the unit to one or more additional support units about the open MRI to form an articulated support assembly adjustable in configuration about the open MRI.

33. The modular unit as in claim 25, having storage recesses formed therein for storing items.

34. The modular unit as in claim 25, wherein the modular unit includes a cushioned surface for comfortably supporting a patient or caregiver adjacent the MRI.

35. The modular unit as in claim 34 wherein the cushioned surface is contoured to support a specific body part in appropriate orientation adjacent the MRI.

36. The modular unit as in claim 34 wherein the cushioned surface forms a cover over a storage recess within the modular unit.

37. The modular unit as in claim 25 that is an L-shaped unit.

38. The modular unit as in claim 25 that is a cover unit.

39. A method to reduce patient anxiety during a medical imaging procedure comprising the steps of: providing the modular unit as in claim 25; and placing the modular unit against a medical imaging device to enable a caregiver to sit or lie adjacent the patient during the medical imaging procedure.

40. A method to improve patient comfort and positioning during an MRI procedure comprising the steps of: providing the modular unit as in claim 25; placing the modular unit against the base of the MRI device; and positioning a patient upon the bed of the imaging device and upon the support surface of the modular unit as necessary such that the patient body part to be imaged lies in the magnetic isocenter of the MRI system.